Blow for Alford as major bank prepares to close

Barclays Bank in Alford is set to close in November. EMN-150813-114640001

Published:09:28Wednesday 19 August 2015

Alford’s branch of Barclays Bank is set to close later this year following a sharp decline in customer usage.

Karen Kuciers, Community Leader for Barclays in Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire, said: “The way customers undertake their banking is changing as people increasingly use online, telephone and mobile devices.

“At Barclays Alford branch, customer usage has continued to decline and half of our customers now regularly use alternative branches, which is why we have taken the difficult decision to close the branch on Friday, November 20.

“Alternative branches are available at Mablethorpe, Spilsby, Skegness and Louth.

“However, customers will also be able to access services at the local Post Office in Alford, which along with our range of digital channels will help to ease the transition for our customers.

“We do not take the decision to close any branch lightly and we are committed to adhering to the new Government protocol on branch closures.

Ms Kuciers added: “All of our customers will receive a letter, posters will be displayed in branch, and colleagues will be on hand to assist customers with any concerns they may have.

“We will be proactively engaging with local businesses and the wider community.”

Resident Stephen Walker commented: “This is rather a shock as the hours were only recently reduced to four opening days per week.